Penny Penguin
Craft, 2024
9/10
The esteemed children’s musician and global troubadour Raffi returns with a 24th studio album, where Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough, and Sue Passmore, i.e. Good Lovelies, join in for the 14 lively tunes.
The playful “The Birdies Sing” starts with the sounds of birds and Raffi’s uplifting voice, plus the trio harmonizing alongside warm piano, and “You’ll Sing A Song” follows with fluid strumming and group vocals for the lovely melodies.
Moving along, the charming “Mama Loves It” uses strings strategically and plenty of ‘guest’ vocals from our animal friends, while “Hum Hummingbird” carries a soothing appeal of eloquent singing and flowing acoustic guitar.
Close to the end, “By The Bay” uses the Good Lovelies for some sublime harmonizing amid deeper vocals from Raffi, and “Doucement S’en Va Le Jour” exits with a cultured moment of gentle instrumentation, fun whistling and much authenticity.
Largely considered the most influential children’s entertainer, Raffi’s folk-pop ways are infectious and timeless, where he keeps the attention of any age across these worldly selections.
Travels well with: Debi Derryberry- Gotta Go Green; Rolie Polie Guacamole- Diggin’ In The Dirt